By Jasmyne Ray | The Selma Times-Journal

After a successful first year, the city of Selma has brought back “One Hot Summer,” a series of weekend family activities.

“It’s a series of quality of life events that we have put together for the citizens of Selma who have also helped put them together so that summers in Selma can be spent in Selma,” said City Councilwoman Angela Benjamin, who represents Ward 4 and is organizing the series.

All the events are held in the entertainment district near Water Avenue and take place on Fridays and Saturdays with some Sunday.

Benjamin said it is important that people have recreational activities like the ones being offered close to home.

The summer series will run from June to Labor Day weekend in September, with different events nestled between.

These events include a dog show, fashion show, community service projects and opportunities to listen to live music; the biggest of which is Jazz on the Grazz.

The fifth annual Jazz on the Grazz will take place Saturday, June 18 from noon to 10 p.m.

All the musical acts performing have added a Prince song to their set list and will perform a cover of it. In addition to the music, there will also be a recycling competition that ties into the overall cause of the event, “Jazz Up Selma.”

“You’ll just have music and people everywhere.” Benjamin said. “Under their tents, in their lawn chairs, lying on blankets in the grass, just enjoying themselves.”

The activities of One Hot Summer are usually no cost or very low cost and open to all. Aside from giving residents a reason to stay in Selma, it also encourages fellowship and a sense of community within the town.

“When people know each other a little bit more, they tend to love on each other a little bit more.” Benjamin said.